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Free Dolphins And Whales In The U.S. From Cruel Captivity

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Sponsor: Free The Ocean

Mexico and Canada have already banned cruel dolphin and whale shows—now it is time for the United States to act with compassion.

Free Dolphins And Whales In The U.S. From Cruel Captivity

Mexico has made history by passing a nationwide ban on the use of marine mammals in entertainment. This sweeping reform outlaws dolphin and whale shows, bans captive breeding, and prohibits capturing animals from the wild for commercial purposes1. An estimated 350 dolphins remain in captivity in Mexico, but under the law they will be relocated to sea pens where they can live with greater freedom2.

A Cruel Industry

For decades, dolphins, orcas, and sea lions have been exploited in concrete tanks across North America. These animals are deprived of space, social bonds, and natural behaviors. Scientific studies show captivity inflicts chronic stress and disease, reducing lifespans and leaving lasting psychological scars3. What is sold as entertainment is built on suffering.

North America Sets a Precedent

Canada also acted, passing a ban on keeping dolphins and whales for entertainment in 2019. With Mexico now joining, two of the United States’ closest neighbors have set a clear standard for compassion and responsibility4. Their actions demonstrate that progress is possible when lawmakers place animal welfare and conservation above industry profits.

The United States Must Act

The United States is now lagging behind. While it has protections under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, captivity for entertainment remains legal, and dolphinariums continue to profit from animal exploitation. As long as Congress fails to act, dolphins and other marine mammals in the U.S. will remain trapped in tanks, condemned to lifetimes of forced performances.

Compassion and Responsibility

This is a moment for the U.S. to show leadership. Lawmakers on the House Natural Resources Committee and the Senate Subcommittee on Oceans have the power to end this cruelty. By passing legislation that mirrors Mexico and Canada, Congress can protect marine mammals, respect public demand for ethical treatment, and move the nation toward a future without captive exploitation.

Take Action Today

Every day that passes is another day dolphins, whales, and sea lions spend in confinement. The United States must not be the country that allows this suffering to continue while its neighbors take bold action. Call on Congress to end the use of marine mammals in entertainment. Sign the petition now and demand freedom for these animals.

More on this issue:

  1. World Animal Protection (27 June 2025), "Mexico bans dolphin shows in historic win for animal welfare."
  2. Humane World for Animals (26 June 2025), "Mexico bans use of captive marine mammals for entertainment."
  3. Cara Sands, Dolphin Project (27 June 2025), "Historic Victory for Marine Mammals in Mexico!."
  4. France24 (26 June 2025), "Mexican lawmakers vote to ban dolphin shows."
  5. Jordi Casamitjana, Vegan FTA (7 July 2025), "Mexico’s Congress Approves Ban on Dolphin and Whale Shows."

The Petition

To the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), Members of the House Committee on Natural Resources, and Members of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,

Marine mammals are some of the most intelligent, social, and sensitive beings on Earth. Yet in the United States, dolphins, whales, sea lions, and other marine mammals are still held captive, forced into concrete tanks, and made to perform for human entertainment. This outdated practice inflicts lifelong suffering, depriving them of the freedom, space, and family bonds they need to thrive.

Mexico and Canada have already taken historic steps by banning the use of marine mammals for entertainment. Their laws prohibit capture from the wild, captive breeding, and exploitative performances, instead prioritizing conservation and respect for these remarkable animals.

We call on the United States Congress to follow our North American neighbors’ lead. Pass legislation to end the use of marine mammals in shows, aquariums, and attractions. Relocate those currently in captivity to ocean sanctuaries where they can live with dignity.

This is not only a matter of law, but of compassion and humanity. We owe it to these animals to stop treating them as commodities and start recognizing them as living beings with needs and rights.

By acting now, Congress can help ensure a future where marine mammals are respected, where entertainment does not come at the cost of cruelty, and where future generations can experience the beauty of these animals where they belong—free in the wild.

Sincerely,

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